Many Californians Confused And Uncertain About Health Reform

Audio

Aired 8/18/11

Health reform is supposed to greatly expand the Medi-Cal program in 2014. But a new report shows a lot of people who will be eligible for the coverage don't know it.

SAN DIEGO  A new study reveals there's a lot of uncertainty and confusion about health reform among poor Californians. The report shows low-income people are unclear about what benefits they'll receive.

The Public Policy Institute of California asked poor residents to share their understanding of health reform. The institute's report shows many people don't understand how reform is supposed to work, or what they'll get out of it.

"Education needs to be done out in the communities, and it needs to be done in the neighborhoods," Rotto said. "And we are partnering with others, whether it be the County, whether it be the state, whether it be with other non-profits, to help to provide the information that people need."

In 2014, health reform is supposed to extend coverage to more poor Californians through the Medi-Cal program. Up to three million addition people may be eligible for the public health plan. In addition, uninsured adults without children may qualify for the program.

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